Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are struggling in IPL 2025, with just four points from nine matches. Coach Stephen Fleming admits their auction strategy may have backfired, while Suresh Raina claims MS Dhoni wouldn’t have allowed such decisions. Can CSK qualify for playoffs 2025? Here’s an in-depth analysis.
CSK’s Disastrous IPL 2025 Season So Far
Chennai Super Kings, one of the most successful IPL franchises, are facing their worst season in years. With only two wins in nine matches, their playoff hopes are hanging by a thread.
Why is CSK Struggling?
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Poor Auction Strategy: Fleming admits they “haven’t been able to get it right.”
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Inconsistent Batting: Frequent collapses and high dot-ball percentages.
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Injuries & Form Issues: Ruturaj Gaikwad’s injury worsened their situation.
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Role Confusion: Players like Jadeja, Dube, and Dhoni shuffled in unfamiliar roles.
Stephen Fleming’s Honest Admission
CSK’s head coach took responsibility for their poor season, stating:
“We just haven’t been able to get it right. There is a lot of soul-searching, and it starts with me.”
Fleming highlighted:
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Over-reliance on experienced players rather than young talent.
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Failed experiments like promoting Jadeja and using Ashwin in powerplays.
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Lack of settled XI – CSK have used 20 out of 27 players so far.
Despite the struggles, Fleming remains hopeful:
“We are not far away. A couple of key injuries and lack of form have hurt us.”
Suresh Raina’s Shocking Revelation
Former CSK star Suresh Raina dropped a bombshell, blaming the auction strategy:
“MS Dhoni knows CSK didn’t buy properly in the auction. He wouldn’t have allowed it.”
Raina claimed:
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Dhoni isn’t deeply involved in auctions – the core management makes decisions.
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High-paid players are underperforming, leaving Dhoni to carry the team.
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A major team meeting is likely after another disappointing loss.
Can CSK Still Qualify for the Playoffs 2025?
Mathematically, yes, but it’s extremely tough. Here’s what CSK needs:
✅ Win all remaining matches (5 games left).
✅ Hope other teams lose to improve Net Run Rate (NRR).
✅ Big improvements in batting & bowling consistency.
Upcoming Fixtures Crucial for CSK
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vs Mumbai Indians (Must-win to stay alive)
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vs Royal Challengers Bangalore (Key NRR booster)
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vs Kolkata Knight Riders (Tough challenge)
What’s Next for CSK?
If CSK fails to qualify, expect:
🔹 Major squad overhaul in the next auction.
🔹 Young talent push – players like Dewald Brevis may get more chances.
🔹 Dhoni’s future? At 43, will he continue beyond 2025?
Final Verdict
While CSK’s playoff chances look slim, never underestimate the Yellow Army. If any team can stage a comeback, it’s CSK. But with the current form, fans should brace for a tough road ahead.
FAQs: Can CSK Qualify for Playoffs 2025?
1. Can CSK still qualify for the IPL 2025 playoffs?
Yes, but they must win all remaining matches, and depend on other results.
2. What is CSK’s current position in IPL 2025?
They are last in the points table with just 4 points from 9 matches.
3. Why is CSK struggling in IPL 2025?
Poor auction strategy, injuries, and inconsistent performances.
4. What did Stephen Fleming say about CSK’s performance?
He admitted the auction strategy failed and took responsibility.
5. What did Suresh Raina say about CSK’s auction?
Raina claimed MS Dhoni wasn’t fully involved and wouldn’t have allowed such decisions.
6. How many players has CSK used so far?
They’ve used 20 out of 27 players, showing a lack of stability.
7. Who are CSK’s key underperforming players?
High-paid stars like Jadeja and Dube haven’t delivered consistently.
8. What must CSK do to qualify?
Win all remaining matches and improve Net Run Rate.
9. Will MS Dhoni retire after IPL 2025?
No official confirmation, but at 43, speculation is rising.
10. Has CSK ever recovered from such a bad start?
Yes, in past seasons, but 2025 looks much tougher.
For the latest IPL 2025 Points Table, visit iplscoretable.com.
Do you think CSK can still qualify? Share your views in the comments! 🏏💛
